Stephen Darby needs at least three practice matches before i-League. Mohun Bagan players did not get any leave for the Durgapuja. They are having their practice session at the Salt Lake Stadium every day morning. Darby is serious about his team but he is very eager to play some competitive matches. He informed that also to the officials. But the official did not find any formidable opponent. Due to Durand Cup maximum teams have participated in the tournament.

Meanwhile Odafa Okolie and Sunil Chhetri have joined practice after recovery from injury.  Coach Darby was very eager to participate in the Durand Cup but due to the policy of the club, it has become impossible to participate in the tournament. Steve Darby is trying to boost the confidence of the players too. After poor performance in the Fed Cup, it is very much needed to the players. He told that there are lot of very good players in the team but they lost their confidence very soon. He has to work hard on that to get back their confidence.